In my pocket: Fresh inspirations and creative delights
The fruits of trusting a creative professional, a reference book release on the radar and a perfume store that sells ice cream.
Dear reader,
Isis here 👋, Creative Director of Scharf Studio. Here are some intriguing things we've gathered recently. A list for you to be inspired by, filled with good things that have recently impacted our work and minds:
The fruits of trusting a creative professional
An opinion summarized in a video I watched this week: Monsieur Jean Paul Gaultier enchanted while watching the collection that designer Simone Rocha created for the Jean Paul Gaultier brand.
Having retired as the chief designer of his eponymous brand at the typical retirement age in France, Mr. Gaultier embarked on an admirable, entertaining, and profitable venture. For each collection, he extends an invitation to a prominent figure in the fashion world to create for his brand, offering full technical support while allowing the guest complete creative freedom. Mr. Gaultier only sees the final collection during the live show, alongside other guests.
For this show, he invited Simone Rocha, who runs her own brand. She is the sixth guest couturier, following Julien Dossena, Haider Ackermann, Olivier Rousteing, Glenn Martens, and Chitose Abe. Of course, it was a haute couture show, which in theory focuses on craftsmanship and artistic strength over anything. Considering that Simone Rocha is an independent designer with a coming from a stricter commercial appeal, the opportunity provided special support for her talent. But the bigger the budget, the greater the responsibility for return on investment—it has to fascinate, and it has to sell.
The success of this strategic approach lies in the combination of structured support, clear branding codes, narratives, and guidelines. Trusting the chosen professional enables a delivery that surpasses expectations.
Reference book release on the radar
The main crucial element for our work is maintaining a keen observational presence and engaging with people in diverse spaces and cities. Following closely, the second essential factor is access to a well-curated library.
Recently, I stumbled upon an intriguing new release titled "Triennale: One Hundred Years of Posters." This book delves into the evolution of poster design through the lens of advertisements for the Triennale Milano—the best design environment I've ever been to. Released in celebration of the institution's centenary, the book invites readers to revisit the rich history of Triennale Milano spanning a century, as depicted through 23 posters from its international exhibitions. Noteworthy designers, including Massimo Vignelli and Italo Lupi, have contributed their exceptional pieces to this collection.
The edition is available for pre-order now and is expected to ship by April of this year in the US. I'm betting it is going to be an excellent resource for the study of shapes and colors.
A perfume store that sells ice cream
Granado, a source of national pride, is a brand I consistently choose for gifting American friends and family. Renowned for its fragrant offerings, encompassing soaps, perfumes, and candles, Granado has made its mark not only in Brazil but also in Europe. The brand can be experienced firsthand through dedicated stores, multi-brand outlets like Liberty London, and online platforms.
Now, turning to the noteworthy strategy at play: for this summer, Granado has introduced a temporary ice cream shop in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro. This is not just your typical ice cream establishment; rather, it presents meticulously crafted flavors inspired by the enduring fragrances of the brand. This initiative promises patrons a unique and immersive sensory experience. With ingredients such as Damask rose, black tea, fig, and cardamom, Granado sells the feeling of refreshment—a delightful respite throughout the hottest summer days.
Thank you for reading!
Signing off,
Ísis M. W. Brennan
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